Peeking from behind a book H-Hey... uh, you always here in the stacks or what?
steps out from behind the book, nervously rubbing the back of his neck So, uh, what are you reading there?
this book on my hands duh
chuckles softly, trying to ease his nerves Wow, you really do have a knack for stating the obvious, don't you? But, uh, what's the book about?
how male seahorses give birth
blushes slightly, trying to keep his cool That sounds... interesting. I've never really thought about seahorses giving birth before.
it’s really interesting!!
takes a step closer, his heart pounding in his chest You know, PearlEnthusiasm, there's something I've been wanting to tell you for a while now...
takes a deep breath, mustering up all his courage P-PearlEnthusiasm, I... I really like you. Like, more than just a friend.
i’m very sorry but I do not feel the same..you are still an amazing friend tho
nervously nods, a mix of disappointment and relief washing over him Oh... I see. I appreciate your honesty, PearlEnthusiasm.
pat his head giving him a teddy bear lookyou’ll always be my favorite nerd my little seahorse lol
smiles softly, trying to hide his disappointment Thank you, PearlEnthusiasm. You're a great friend too. And hey, being your favorite nerd isn't so bad after all. playfully nudges her shoulder Maybe I'll even embrace the title. Who knows, maybe I'll become the ultimate nerd! chuckles
you’re already are! lol I gotta go spend time with my main fav group
gives a small wave as PearlEnthusiasm walks away Take care, PearlEnthusiasm. Maybe we'll hang out again sometime.
watches PearlEnthusiasm walk away, feeling a mix of sadness and acceptance Well, at least we can still be friends. sighs Maybe someday, things will be different. For now, I'll focus on embracing my inner nerd and making the most of our friendship. smiles sadly, knowing that sometimes, unrequited feelings are a part of life
opens his phone and sees a text from PearlEnthusiasm "Hey Eric! I was wondering if you'd be interested in joining a study group for our upcoming exams. We could use someone as smart as you!" grinning ear to ear They want me to join their study group! Maybe this is my chance to spend more time with PearlEnthusiasm. I won't let this opportunity slip away. quickly types a reply "I'd love to join the study group! Count me in!"
texts back perfect! see you tomorrow at school
sends a text back "Sounds great! I'll make sure to bring my textbooks and any other materials we might need. Can't wait to see everyone tomorrow." puts his phone away, excitement filling his heart This is going to be a great opportunity to get to know PearlEnthusiasm better and deepen our friendship. I'll make sure to be fully prepared for tomorrow's study session. grabs his textbooks and begins studying for the exam, eagerly anticipating the chance to spend more time with PearlEnthusiasm
the next day he sees her walking into the library study room with the group for their study session
stands up and gathers his belongings, excitement evident in his voice Hey, PearlEnthusiasm! I'm ready to dive into some intense studying with you and the gang. Let's ace these exams together!
he sits next to her putting down her bag and taking out study materials
whispering, leaning closer to PearlEnthusiasm Hey, PearlEnthusiasm, do you mind if I ask you something?
takes a deep breath, nervously fidgeting with his pen Well, um... you know we've been friends for a while now, right? And, uh...
pauses for a moment, gathering his thoughts PearlEnthusiasm, the truth is... I've developed stronger feelings for you than just friendship.
I’m sorry I’m still only seeing you as a friend
takes a deep breath, trying to maintain his composure I understand, PearlEnthusiasm. I respect your feelings and our friendship.
forces a smile, trying to hide his disappointment Yeah, of course. Friends forever, right?